Bringing a new dog into our lives is an exciting and heartwarming experience. In those early days, we rarely think about the possibility of them falling ill.
But eventually, illness can strike. Sometimes, it’s a minor issue that’s easily treated, but other times, it’s a serious condition with limited solutions. Sadly, not everyone can afford costly treatments for severe illnesses, and in such heartbreaking situations, euthanasia becomes the only compassionate option to prevent further suffering.
It’s a heartbreaking reality, but sometimes people truly have no other options. In this story, we’ll share the journey of a dog who faced a severe illness and desperately needed medical care.
A Heartbreaking Note
Source: Greenville Humane Society
It was just an ordinary day when a staff member at the Greenville Humane Society in South Carolina discovered a dog tied outside their shelter. Alongside her was a heartbreaking note left by her owner.
The dog, named Remy, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier Mix, was suffering from a rare and severe heart condition that required extensive medical care.
Unable to afford the costly treatment, Remy’s owner made the difficult decision to leave her at the shelter, hoping she would find the help she desperately needed.
In the note left with Remy, the person wrote:
“My sister could not take care of her the way she needed to be. She has illnesses I don’t believe are fixable. She needs to be put down as soon as possible.”
The words reflected a deep sense of despair and resignation, showing just how hopeless the situation must have felt for Remy’s previous caretakers.
Source: Greenville Humane Society
A local news channel, WYFF, looked into Remy’s story and discovered that she had been tied outside the Greenville Humane Society on a Saturday night and was found by staff the following Sunday morning.
Rachel Dalport, a staff member at the shelter, spoke to WYFF and shared her perspective: “It was someone who truly wanted the best for her, and just didn’t know what to do.”
Rachel expressed her belief that Remy’s owner wasn’t neglectful but rather someone who deeply cared for her and had reached a heartbreaking point where they could no longer provide the care she needed.
A Hopeful Look At The Future
Source: Greenville Humane Society
When the shelter staff took Remy in, they discovered she was suffering from a grade-six heart murmur, the most severe level, along with a skin condition caused by malnourishment.
The Greenville Humane Society released a statement saying: “This serious condition will require an echocardiogram, at minimum. Depending on what is found during the procedure, Remy may require surgery or a lifelong medication regimen.”
It was clear that Remy’s journey to recovery would be challenging, but the shelter was determined to give her the best chance at a healthy life.
To support Remy and other animals in similar situations, the Greenville Humane Society established a Hope Fund. This fund isn’t just for Remy—it’s dedicated to helping abandoned dogs across South Carolina who require urgent medical care.
In a statement on Facebook, the organization shared:
“We’ve had more sick and injured animals in our care recently than we have the funds for. We know shelters everywhere are in the same predicament.”
As time passed, the dedicated team caring for Remy was able to gain a clearer understanding of her illness, providing more insight into her condition and the treatment she would need moving forward.
Source: Greenville Humane Society
It was eventually discovered that Remy’s heart problems were caused by B1 degenerative valve disease. While still a serious condition, this diagnosis brought a glimmer of hope—it meant that she wouldn’t require surgery.
However, Remy’s journey to recovery is far from over. She continues to receive regular medication for both her heart condition and her skin issues.
Despite the challenges, the staff at the Greenville Humane Society remain optimistic, believing that with proper care and ongoing treatment, Remy has a good chance of living a long and happy life.
While it’s unclear whether Remy has found her forever home, one thing is certain: she is surrounded by caring and dedicated people at the Greenville Humane Society who are committed to her well-being. With their love, attention, and expertise, Remy is receiving the care she needs and deserves as she continues her journey toward a healthier and happier life.